Marinaresco is still hungry for more glory

Candice Bass-Robinson took out her trainer’s licence a mere 12 months ago but attempts to crown an outstanding first season by achieving the rare July-Champions Cup double at Greyville this Saturday.

Last pulled off by El Picha in 2000, this feat is something even her legendary father Mike never managed despite numerous attempts. The horse entrusted with this responsibility is of course the diminutive Marinaresco.

Standing just over 15 hands, he could never be described as ‘imposing’. However by his trainers own account he is something of a feisty little character who likes to “fight other horses”.

This aggressive trait manifested itself early in his career when there were a couple of episodes where he attempted to savage rivals during a race.

In fact this is why the son of Silvano now always races equipped with blinkers. Nothing to do with concentration or focus, but to stop him taking a fly chunk out of an unfortunate neighbour.

Candice struggles to contain her enthusiasm when talking about the stable star.

“He is a great athlete and extremely well balanced, but his biggest strength is his huge heart and will to win” is how she sums him up.

Of course, she also recognises the fact that he “quickens instantaneously” is essential for sustained success.

With Bernard Fayd’Herbe back aboard at what appears to be Marinaresco’s favourite course, and the weights in his favour, you can expect to see the famous Shirtliff silks becoming very prominent in the final stages.

If the race pans out as expected he may well be eyeballing the giant Captain America late on in David vs Goliath showdown. And we all know who won that one!